Common Problems With Mobility Scooters
A mobility scooter can be essential for your independence, which makes it even more frightening when a fault occurs. It’s important to recognise the early indicators of a problem so that you can get it replaced or fixed at your next convenience.
In this mobility scooter troubleshooting guide, we explain some common problems with mobility scooters and the best way to fix them.
If you are having trouble with your Mobility Scooter, or need repairs, give our team a call on 0121 371 0780 to book.
Battery
The most common component to suffer a fault is the battery. It’s natural for the battery to lose charge over time, so you should expect some mild issues as the years go by. These may include:
- The batteries no longer recognise the charger when it is connected
- Your mobility scooter doesn’t cover as much distance in a single charge as it used to
- Your mobility scooter stops at random intervals
- The battery is no longer able to hold a full charge
- The battery drops faster than usual
Natural degradation of a battery is normal. Constant charging and discharging will slowly wear down the battery. If you’ve noticed any of the above battery issues, your best course of action is to get the battery replaced.
Tyres
Mobility scooters typically come with one of two sets of tyres: pneumatic or solid. Pneumatic tyres are more likely to suffer an issue, but tyre problems can occur in both types. Look out for the following issues:
- The mobility scooter is bumpy
- The mobility scooter isn’t handling properly
- Braking performance is reduced
If you notice any of the above, you may have a puncture. It can be dangerous to drive with flat tyres, and so you should cease all driving and get your tyres replaced as soon as possible.
Ignition Switches
The ignition switch is exposed to the weather, leading to gradual corrosion over time. This may result in the key sticking or breaking entirely if left unresolved.
You should bring your mobility scooter to a professional the moment you notice a key sticking in the ignition so you don’t reach the point of breakage. Should the worst happen and the key breaks in the ignition, gently remove it with a pair of tweezers.
Motors
Motors can be damaged from driving over a pavement without a dropped kerb, or from dust and grit getting stuck in the components. You may have a problem with your motor if:
- The mobility scooter is bumpy when it rides
- The vehicle stops intermittently
- The scooter makes unusual noises
These bumpy periods are known as ‘flat spots’, and are caused by the motor temporarily dropping to a lower output. If you notice unexpected bumpiness or any other motor issues, get your motor replaced by a professional.
Potentiometer
Potentiometers are exposed to the elements and are therefore vulnerable to corrosion. A corroded potentiometer may cause the unit to fail and cause the speed of the mobility scooter to fluctuate for no reason.
If you have noticed erratic speed while driving your mobility scooter, we recommend contacting a professional to diagnose the issue and replace your potentiometer.
Mobility Scooter Maintenance and Repairs
If you’ve noticed any mobility scooter problems, your best course of action is to take it to a professional for repairs or maintenance. Left unaddressed, the problem may get worse to the point that your mobility scooter is dangerous or unusable.
Mobility scooter fault finding should ideally involve a professional. Here at Ideas in Action, our team has over 40 years of professional experience carrying out mobility scooter repairs and maintenance throughout Birmingham.
Simply bring your mobility scooter to our team and we will diagnose and repair the issue. We have a selection of spare parts if any components need to be replaced, and we even offer periodic maintenance to ensure your scooter remains in good shape. Contact our team today to find out more.